Meet the World’s Richest Pro Gamers!
Video games aren’t just a hobby anymore; they’re big business. A few years back, the idea of making a living from gaming sounded like a pipe dream. But today? It’s a reality for a lucky (and skilled) few who’ve turned pixels into paychecks, whether through pro leagues or streaming empires.
Here’s a closer look at the top 10 gamers in the world — the ones who cashed in big time.
1. PewDiePie – $60 Million
Felix Kjellberg, better known as PewDiePie, reigns supreme. With over 100 million YouTube subscribers, he’s built a fortune not just through gaming but also through brand deals, merchandise, and mobile games. While his content today has expanded beyond gaming, especially after becoming a dad, his rise to fame came through gameplay, and that makes him one of the most famous gamers.
2. Ninja – $40 Million
Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins helped turn Twitch into what it is today. Known for Fortnite and his flashy blue hair, Ninja doesn’t just stream — he commands audiences across Twitch, YouTube, and even mainstream media. Reports say his streams can bring in up to $1 million each. Oh, and he also pushed Twitch to re-enable simulcasting, proving he’s got both clout and cash.
3. Shroud – $20 Million
Michael Grzesiek, aka Shroud, built his empire on jaw-dropping aim and a calm, cool demeanor. He’s known as one of the top 10 gamers in the world and the “King of Battle Royales,” especially in PUBG and Valorant. He’s earned every dollar of his $20 million net worth by dominating with a mouse and keyboard.
4. Germán Garmendia – $10 Million
He may have started with comedy sketches, but Germán made his mark in the gaming world with his JuegaGerman YouTube channel — one of the most-watched in Spanish. Not all of his content is gaming-focused and can be considered in the category of celebrity gaming. With $10 million to his name, he’s a content king who gamed his way to the top.
5. N0tail – $7 Million
Johan ‘N0tail’ Sundstein is a Dota 2 legend. With multiple championships under his belt as part of Team OG, he’s widely regarded as one of the best players in the history of the game. He started young with Heroes of Newerth before making the jump to pro Dota, and now sits comfortably with a $7 million net worth.
6. Miracle- (Amer Barqawi) – $4.8 Million
Amer’s journey took off in PUBG, but it was Dota 2 where he found his groove — and serious cash. After joining OG (recruited by N0tail himself), Amer became a tournament-winning machine. He’s not flashy on social media, but his dominance in the scene speaks volumes.
7. SumaiL – $3.3 Million
Sumail Hassan made headlines when he won The International (Dota 2’s biggest event) at just 16 years old. Playing for Evil Geniuses, the top North American esports team, he’s one of the youngest and most consistent earners in the game. Talent, drive, and timing — he’s had all three, and that’s why he is one of the top 10 gamers in the world.
8. Bugha – $3 Million
Kyle ‘Bugha’ Giersdorf changed everything with a single tournament. At 16, he stunned the world by winning the 2019 Fortnite World Cup Solo Finals and taking home a $3 million prize. He didn’t stop there — Bugha went on to become a three-time Fortnite Champion Series champ and remains one of the faces of competitive Fortnite.
9. dupreeh – $2.2 Million
Peter ‘dupreeh’ Rasmussen is a CS: GO veteran and one of the founding members of Astralis, one of the most successful teams in Counter-Strike history. His consistency, teamwork, and leadership helped cement his place in the hall of fame — and earn him a couple of million while he was at it.
10. HuaHai – $2 Million
Luo ‘HuaHai’ Siyuan exploded onto the scene in 2019, winning the King Pro League and scoring the first-ever pentakill on Arli during his debut season. That same year, he helped secure the World Champion Cup, which had a massive $4.5 million prize pool. He’s one of the brightest rising stars and is just getting started to climb in the list of top 10 gamers in the world.
Where Is Gaming Most Popular?
Everywhere. From first-person shooters and MOBAs to mobile games and even casino games that pay out real money, gaming is now a global phenomenon. Whether you’re in Seoul or São Paulo, gaming has become a cultural force — and for a few talented players, a ticket to the big leagues with the top 10 best gamers in the world.
